How You Can Help

According to the 2011 Homeless Count, 24% of those reported as homeless in Indianapolis were under the age of 24, and 16% were under the age of 18. Youth homelessness is different than adult homelessness. This is due to several factors, not the least of which is the relative vulnerability of the youth population. Oftentimes, young people who are homeless are escaping from severe abuse or they have been kicked out of their homes by their parents or other family. Many times they are afraid of being returned to abusive situations, and this can make them hard to find, track and serve. Young people are far less likely to have the kind of secondary support structure needed to deal with such situations and they find themselves on the streets (NAEH.org).

Unfortunately, the shelter and service system is usually not equipped for youth and the issues they face. Shelters and other assistance providers are designed for adults. Often they do not understand the needs of homeless youth and may lack the resources to provide the necessary interventions. Shelters can be dangerous places for this vulnerable population. Young people forced to live on the street many times will resort to petty crime or prostitution to survive. They are more likely to engage in drug use as well. More severe consequences of youth homelessness and exposure to living on the street include: Rape, Sexual exploitation, Assault, Mental illness, Physical illness, including HIV/AIDS High rates of suicide, and Abduction.​​

A large contributing factor to youth homelessness is discharge from state institutions such as foster care or juvenile detention. Without a home, family support, or other resources, homeless youth are often arrested for offenses like running away or breaking curfew. The House of Hope transitional group home would support up to 10 at-risk youth, and afford them the opportunity to receive the much needed support to become self sufficient. To help find this project we have created a GOFUNDME page, and if you would like to support us, please visit our page.